Gig Vehicle Parking

ABSTRACT

A gig parking system is provided with a mobile platform having a secure access mechanism permitting a trusted parking agent to gain control over the platform. The platform may include a location subsystem to determine the geographic location of the platform and a communications subsystem to transmit verification information including an identification code associated with the parking agent, an identification code associated with the vehicle, and geographic location. A parking software application may permit the selection the destination parking location from a plurality of potential destination parking locations, which may have weighted values with a corresponding reward, and which may be given to either, or both, the platform owner and the parking agent. The reward may be based upon additional factors, such as vehicle starting parking location, distance between starting and destination parking locations, travel time between starting and destination parking locations, time of day, and day of the week.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

Any and all applications, if any, for which a foreign or domesticpriority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet of thepresent application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR1.57.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

This invention generally relates to vehicle position monitoringnetworks, more particularly, to a system and method for monitoring andcontrolling vehicle parking positions.

2. Description of the Related Art

Automotive vehicles are one of the most costly expenses incurred by theaverage consumer. Ironically, most automobiles sit idle for a largeportion of the day. U.S. Pat. No. 10,796,340, entitled SYSTEM AND METHODFOR TARGETING THE DISTRIBUTION OF MEDIA FROM A MOBILE PLATFORM, inventedby Peter Ta et al., and filed on Oct. 14, 2019, describes an automotivetargeted parking system that adds to an automobile the additionalfeature of a media display subsystem, and which may also include aWireless Local Area Network (WLAN) IEEE 802.11 (WiFi) access point(hotspot).

It would be advantageous if an automobile could be used as portable realestate, capable of projecting media and acting as a communicationscenter.

It would be advantageous if a system existed for moving vehicles toprime parking locations so as to enable the concept of portable realestate.

It would be advantageous if the parking locations to which the vehiclesare moved could be monitored.

It would be advantageous if a Domain Name System (DNS) serviceassociated with the vehicle could track the Uniform Resource Locator(URL) addresses requested through an embedded publically accessible WLANor Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN).

It would be advantageous if the time and location of the WLAN or WPANservices could be tracked, recorded, and continuously verified.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A system and method are disclosed herein for automotive vehiclepositioning, for use in providing Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)IEEE 802.11 (WiFi) access point and media projection services. Thus, thesystem may act as a mobile advertising platform that seeks to expand andcapture market share within the outdoor advertising market segment bydirecting the selective deployment of media and WLAN services topreferred target locations. The system may transmit the followinginformation: (i) a unique identifier for the device in use (for example,radio-frequency identification), (ii) the time, date, duration, andlocation (using global positioning satellite (GPS) or cellulartriangulation systems), (iii) an indication that the media projectionsubsystem has been deployed, and (iv) an indication that the WLAN accesspoint is in use. Further, if the WLAN access point is in use, the systemrelays Uniform Resource Locator (URL) address requests from proximateusers, and returns the request results. Graphic information system (GIS)mapping technology may be used to compensate a person or business entityassociated with the system for operating in specified locations. One ofthe primary features of the system its ability to determine if a vehicleis temporarily at rest or parked in a stationary location. Also providedis a system that permits the vehicles to be moved to desired locationsusing a network of trusted parking agents.

Accordingly, a mobile communications system is provided that includes alocation subsystem, configured for attachment to a mobile platform, todetermine the stationary geographic location of the platform. Someexamples of a location subsystem might be a Global Positioning Satellite(GPS) receiver or cell-site multilateration. A deployment subsystem,configured for attachment to the platform, has an interface to supply anenablement signal with an identification code, in response todetermining that the platform is parked in a stationary location.

The system also includes a communications subsystem, configured forattachment to the platform, having an interface to receive verificationinformation including the enablement signal, identification code, andthe stationary geographic location. The communications subsystem has aninterface to transmit the verification information. For example, theverification information may be transmitted to a central server via acellular network. In one aspect a media projection subsystem isconfigured for attachment to the mobile platform, with an interface toproject media. In one variation the media projection subsystem isconfigured for media projection only when the platform is parked in astationary location. One example of the media projection subsystem is aroof-mounted screen that is unfurled over the side of an automobile. Inthe case of an electronic media display, the media to be projected maybe uploaded from a central server. In another version, the systemincludes a motion detector to determine when the mobile platform (e.g.,an automotive vehicle) is being operated but temporarily at rest, forexample stopped at a red light traffic light, and the deploymentsubsystem supplies the enablement signal verifying the lack of motion.However, it should be understood that an enablement signal supplied inresponse to a lack of motion (a stationary location) may also applied todisplay types other than the above-mentioned screen. In this case, themedia projection subsystem may be aerodynamic for use in a movingvehicle.

In one aspect, the system also includes a publically accessible WiFihotspot configured for attachment to the mobile platform. In anotheraspect, the system includes a targeting software application thatpermits the selection of the stationary position from a plurality ofpotential stationary positions, which may have weighted values, and withcorresponding rewards for their selection. The targeting application maybe embedded with either the server or the platform.

The system may further include a camera, configured for attachment tothe platform, having an output to supply images of a proximategeographic location to the platform, which the communications subsystemtransmits to the server or stores in local memory. If a camera isenabled, the system may use a facial recognition software application tocompare the received camera images to facial data, and cross-referencerecognized facial data to associated publically available social networkdata. In addition, media may be selected in response to the socialnetwork data and transmitted to the platform communications subsystemfor presentation by the media projection subsystem.

A gig parking system is also provided with a mobile platform having asecure access mechanism configured for attachment to the platform. Thesecure access mechanism permits a trusted parking agent to gain controlover the platform. Simple examples of secure access mechanisms include alock-and-key or an electronically entered code that permits the platformto be unlocked. In the case of an automotive vehicle, the secure accessmechanism permits the vehicle to be opened (unlocked), started, driven,and parked. The parking agent may be a human being or an autonomousself-driving embedded in the platform. As above, the platform includes alocation subsystem to determine the geographic location of the platform.A communications subsystem receives verification information includingan identification code associated with the parking agent, anidentification code associated with the platform, and geographiclocation, and has an interface to transmit the verification information.A parking mechanism, which may be enabled as a software application,accepts the parking agent's destination parking location, and in someaspects permits the selection of the destination parking location from aplurality of potential destination parking locations. As above, eachpotential destination parking location may have a weighted value with acorresponding reward, which may be given to either, or both, theplatform owner and the parking agent.

The parking software application typically has a parking agent interfacethat supplies a list of potential platforms with corresponding startingparking locations. The reward for the parking agent may be based uponadditional factors, such as platform starting parking location, distancebetween starting and destination parking locations, timing restraints,travel time between starting and destination parking locations, time ofday, day of the week, and combinations thereof. Likewise, the platformowner may also receive rewards based on these additional factors.

The system may further include a publically accessible WiFi hotspotconfigured for attachment to the platform, or a selectively enabledmedia projection subsystem, configured for attachment to the platform.In this case the deployment system may receive an enablement signal inresponse to the media projection subsystem or hotspot being enabled, andthe communications subsystem transmits the enablement signal.

Additional details of the above-described systems and associated methodsof implementation are provided below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A through 1D are diagrams of a mobile location system.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of geographic regions cross-referenced to theweighted value of various stationary positions.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of the mobile location systemserver.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a mobile access point (AP)system.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of a gig parking system.

FIG. 6 is a diagram depicting an exemplary gig parking operation.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram depicting a gig parking agentenabled as an autonomous self-driving software application component.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for mobile platformpositioning.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a mobile communication method.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for gig parking.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A through 1D are diagrams of a mobile location system. In FIG.1A, the system 100 comprises a location subsystem 104, configured forattachment to a mobile platform 102, to determine the geographiclocation of the platform. In one aspect, the location subsystem 104determines a stationary geographic location. The location subsystem 106supplies the determined location on bus line 106. Some common examplesof a mobile platform include an automotive vehicle, scooter, truck, atowed trailer, or portable objects that a small enough to be movedwithout wheels, (e.g., a sidewalk sign). Examples of a locationsubsystem 104 include a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) systemreceiver, assisted GPS taking advantage of cell tower data, a WirelessLocal Area Network IEEE 802.11 (WiFi) positioning system, cell-sitemultilateration, satellite multilateration, inertial system, or a hybridpositioning system. Hybrid positioning systems find location usingseveral different positioning technologies, such as GPS, combined withcell tower signals, wireless internet signals, Bluetooth sensors, IPaddresses, and network environment data. Cell tower signals have theadvantage of not being hindered by buildings or bad weather, but usuallyprovide less precise positioning. WiFi positioning systems may give veryexact positioning in urban areas with high WiFi density, depending on acomprehensive database of WiFi access points. Further, a LORAN typesystem or LoJack® type system might be adapted for the purpose oflocation determination. As noted in U.S. Pat. No. 10,796,340, which isincorporated herein by reference, camera images and the location data ofproximate smartphones, laptops, and personal communication devices canalso be used to determine location.

The system may include a deployment subsystem 112, configured forattachment to the platform 102, having an interface on line 106 tosupply an enablement signal with an identification code, in response todetermining the mobile platform stationary location. A communicationssubsystem 114 is configured for attachment to the platform, and has aninterface to receive verification information including the enablementsignal, identification code, and the stationary geographic location. Inthe event that the system includes a selectively engageable mediaprojection subsystem, as explained below, the verification informationmay include the determination that media is being projected (the mediaprojection subsystem is engaged). In some aspects the deploymentsubsystem may be a component of the location or communicationssubsystem. For example, the deployment system may be understood to beengaged if the mobile platform is located or communication (as describedbelow).

The communications subsystem 114 has an interface, connected to antenna116, to transmit the verification information. In some aspects, theidentification code can be extrapolated from an address associated withthe communications subsystem 114, the location subsystem 104, or theplatform 102. Otherwise, the identification code is a code loaded intomemory 118, or alternatively it can be a mechanical device, such as aDIP switch. The most typical examples of a communication subsystem arecellular systems (e.g., Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM),Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS)-time divisionduplexing (TDD), Long-Term Evolution (LTE), 4^(th) Generation, or 5^(th)Generation), and the like. Less typically, the communications subsystemmay be enabled with WLAN IEEE 802.11 (WiFi), or even Long Range Wirelesstransceiver. Some examples of a Long Range Wireless system includeDigital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT), Evolution-dataOptimized (EVDO), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), High Speed PacketAccess (HSPA), IEEE 802.20 (iBurst), Multichannel MultipointDistribution Service (MMDS), Muni WiFi, commercial satellite, and IEEE802.16 Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX (WiBro)).As another alternative, the communication messages may be stored in theplatform memory 118 and periodically downloaded using a wireless orhardwire connection. The system 100 is not limited to any particulartype of communication subsystem.

One advantage of system 100 is that the parking location of a mobileplatform can be monitored and controlled. In its most basic form, thesystem may be useful in ensuring that certain areas are blocked andsubsequently made available for cultural events and priority vehicleparking. As another example, the system may be used to determine that arental car or scooter has been returned to a proper specified location.Yet another example would be for creating a known parking space insupport of a mobile car washing, detailing, or maintenance service.

Optionally as indicated in phantom, the system 100 may include a mediaprojection subsystem 108, configured for attachment to the platform 102,having an interface 110 to project media. In one aspect, the mediaprojection subsystem 108 is configured for media projection only whenthe platform 102 is parked in a stationary location (position). In oneaspect, the media projection subsystem 108 may be selectively enabled.Some examples of the media interface 110 include a screen over anexterior surface of the platform, including a lighted screen, a screencovering an interior (or exterior) window surface, a projector imageappearing on a window or exterior surface of the platform, a projectorimage relayed through a vehicle rear view or side mirror, and any of theabove-mentioned screens enabled with a field of light emitting diodes(LEDs), or a holographic display. In other words, the media interfacemay be a 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional image, which may or may not beactive (change images). The media interface 110 may also broadcastsounds as an alternative, or in addition, to the displayed image. In thecase of a display screen, the screen may be deployed, from the roof ortop of the platform 102, over the sides, front, top, or back of theplatform. In the case of a holographic display, the image may bepresented on top of, or over the platform 102 or alongside of theplatform. Projector images may also be displayed on images near theplatform, including sidewalks and buildings. The system is not limitedto any particular type of display.

Optionally as indicated in phantom, the system 100 may further comprisea publically accessible Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) IEEE 802.11WiFi hotspot or access point (AP) 120, configured for attachment to theplatform 102, and which is connected to antenna 122. WiFi is a likelychoice since most user smartphone or personal communication devices areWiFi equipped. Alternatively, but less common, the access point 120 maybe a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) IEEE 802.15, examples ofwhich include Li-Fi, wireless USB, and Bluetooth. Even more unlikely asan access point are Long Range Wireless systems. In the case of the WiFihotspot being the communications subsystem 114, items 114 and 120 wouldbe collocated. Otherwise, the WiFi hotspot 120 is connected to thecommunications subsystem 114 through line 106. In some cases, thedeployment subsystem supplies the enablement signal in response to theWiFi hotspot being enabled.

The system 100 may further comprise a targeting software application 124stored in a non-transitory memory, enabling a sequence of processorexecutable instructions permitting the selection of the stationaryposition from a plurality of potential stationary positions. Thenon-transitory memories described herein may be any type or form ofnon-volatile storage device or medium capable of storing data and/orother computer-readable instructions. Examples of memories include,without limitation, Read Only Memory (ROM), flash memory, or any othersuitable memory device. Although not required, in certain embodiments,the systems described herein may include both a volatile memory unit anda non-volatile storage device. The memory may be implemented as sharedmemory and/or distributed memory in a network device. As shown, thetargeting application 124 is embedded in the memory 126 of server 128,or in a network of servers (not shown). Alternatively, as shown inphantom, the targeting application 124 may be embedded in the memory 118of the platform 102.

In one aspect, each potential stationary location has a correspondingweighted value. In another aspect, the identification code or platformis associated with a first entity, and the first entity receives areward corresponding to the value of the selected stationary position.As used herein, an “entity” may be a person, a business, a corporation,or any type of social organization or business unit able to claimownership of, or association with, the identification code, platform102, system 100, server 128, or server clients (discussed below). Insome aspects, the first entity receives no reward if the mediaprojection subsystem 108 is not enabled or if the mobile platform 102 isnot stationary. That is, in some aspects the entity only receives areward if the media projection subsystem 108 is enabled. Otherwise, theentity receives a reward based upon the value of the stationaryposition.

The most obvious type of reward is money. However, the first entity mayalternatively be rewarded with bitcoin, cryptocurrency, coupons,services, or social recognition (prestige). In one aspect, the targetlocation is selected from a plurality of weighted (in value ofimportance) target locations, in response to the specific geographiclocation of where the media projection subsystem is located. Forexample, the target location may be weighted in response to geographiclocation factors such as proximate vehicular traffic, line of sight froma particular vantage point, proximate pedestrian traffic, proximity tocultural events, proximity to cultural facilities, and combinationsthereof. A cultural event is generally understood to be an activityinvolving human beings. Likewise, a cultural facility is a facility usedby human beings, such as a museum, office building, or grocery storeparking lot. As a more explicit example, a target location may have afirst value if the media projection subsystem 132 is enabled (e.g.,parked) within X feet of a particular location, and second value,greater than the first value, if the media projection subsystem isenabled within X/2 feet of the same location. Other factors reflected inthe weighting of the target locations may include the type of mediabeing projected, the time of day, the day of the week, the date, thelength of time the media is being projected, and combinations thereof.

There may be locations, such as parks, hospitals, or freeways wheresignage or parking is legally restricted, and in one aspect theselocations are given a target value of zero. In one aspect, the systemmay even prevent the enablement of the media projection subsystem inlegally restricted areas, or prevent the mobile platform from parking.The system 100 described herein is not limited to any particular factorsweighting a target location. The system may be interactive in the sensethat the first entity may select a deployment location after determiningthe value of a location. In this sense, the targeting application doesnot so much direct the media presentation subsystem to a particularpredetermined location, as suggest multiple possible locations. Althoughthe target locations and weights may be predetermined, in some aspectsthe weighting for non-predetermined areas may be calculated concurrentlywith the deployment of the media projection subsystem or parkingoperation. That is, the target locations and the target location weightsneed not necessarily be predetermined.

As is common in many computer systems, a processor 130 is connected tothe bus line 106, to pull operating instructions from operating system(OS) 132 and software applications in memory 118, and managecommunications between the various components of system 100. Likewise,server 128 would be enabled through the use of processor 132. For easeof understanding, the above-described functions have been described asindividual components. However, it should be understood that inpractice, multiple functions may be performed by a single device,subsystem, or software application.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of geographic regions cross-referenced to theweighted value of various stationary positions. As shown, regions alongMain Street have a value of 1, the highest rated value. The regionsalong Broadway have a value of 2. The regions along Oak have a value of3. The region along Elm near Main Street have a value of 3, whichdecreases to a value of 4 near Sinclair Street, and the regions alongSinclair Street have a value of 5.

Returning to FIGS. 1A and 1B, in one aspect the communications subsystem114 receives media uploads from the server 128, and the communicationssubsystem 114 provides the media uploads to the media projectionsubsystem 108 for presentation. In another aspect, the platform 102further comprises a camera 136 having an output on line 106 to supplyimages of a proximate geographic location to the platform 102. Thecommunications subsystem 114 transmits these images to the server 128 orstores them in local memory 118. In one variation, a facial recognitionsoftware application 138, a form of Biometric Artificial Intelligence,is stored in the non-transitory memory 126 of the server 128, enabling asequence of processor executable instructions for comparing the receivedcamera images to facial data, and cross-referencing recognized facialdata to associated publically available social network data. DeepFace isan example of one such facial recognition system. Optionally, the facialrecognition software application 138 may include components that selectmedia in response to the social network data and transmit the media tothe platform communications subsystem 114. The communications subsystem114 may receive the media uploads from the server 128, and provide themedia uploads to the media projection subsystem 108 for presentation.

The camera images may also be used to modify the value of the targetlocation. For example, the recorded traffic in a location may be greaterthan anticipated, and the target value adjusted accordingly. That is,images recording higher pedestrian or vehicular traffic may have greatervalue. The data may be used to help determine the efficacy of the mediaor location. Alternatively or in addition, the camera images my act toverify that the media projection subsystem 108 has been enabled, theplatform is stationary, or the platform is located in a particularlocation. In one aspect, simply recording a change in images, and thusproximate traffic, can be used as a means for proving media projectionsubsystem enablement. As an alternative, or in addition to the camera,the system may further comprise a proximity detector subsystem to sensenearby motion, which for simplicity can be thought of as beingassociated with reference designator 136, used to measure the density ofproximate vehicular or foot traffic, which data is transmitted by thecommunications subsystem or recorded.

FIG. 1C is a schematic block diagram depicting a variation of thesystem. This variation of system 100 includes a motion detectionsubsystem 140, configured for attachment to a mobile platform, todetermine if the mobile platform is stationary (temporarily at rest). Inone aspect, the motion detection subsystem is one of the locationsubsystems described above. As an alternative, or in addition to one ofthe above-described location subsystems, the motion detection subsystemmay a simple IMU or a may be a signal from a vehicle accelerometerindicating when the speed of the vehicle is zero miles per hour. A mediaprojection subsystem 108 is configured for attachment to the mobileplatform 102, and has an interface to project media 110 as describedabove. A deployment subsystem 112 is configured for attachment to themobile platform 102, and has an interface on line 106 to supply anenablement signal with an identification code, in response to the mobileplatform 102 being stationary. A communications subsystem 114 isconfigured for attachment to the mobile platform 102, and has aninterface to receive verification information on line 106 including theenablement signal and identification code. The communications subsystemhas interface to antenna 116 to transmit the verification information.Alternatively, the verification information may be stored in memory 118.As described above, the described components are differentiated forclarity, but in practical application, some of the above-describedfeatures may be performed by a single subsystem.

In one example, the media projection subsystem 108 is permanentlyengaged, or at least engaged when an attached vehicle is being operated.That is, the media projection subsystem may be enabled even when themobile platform is in motion. In this case, the design of the mediaprojection subsystem may be such that it can tolerate wind resistance,vibration, and mechanical shock. When the mobile platform (e.g., anautomotive vehicle) temporarily stops in traffic without necessarilybeing parked, it is assumed that the projected media becomes morevaluable, as it is easier to see and hear than when the vehicle is inmotion. The amount of time the vehicle is stopped is transmitted by thecommunications subsystem or recorded. In one aspect, an entityassociated with the vehicle receives a reward based upon the amount oftime the vehicle is stopped, with more stationary time yielding agreater reward. In addition, if the motion detection system 140 includesa means of determining location, the reward might also be based onlocation, as described above and in FIG. 1D, with some stationarylocations being of greater value than other stationary locations.

FIG. 1D is a diagram depicting the system of FIG. 1C in operation. Amobile platform 102 is in motion along Broadway as indicated byreference designator 1. The platform 102 comes to rest at theintersection of Broadway and Main, in response to a traffic light orstop sign, as indicted by reference designator 2. The system measuresthe amount of time that the mobile platform is at rest. In some aspectsthe system measures the duration of the rest and the location of therest. A reward may be given to an entity of the mobile platform simplyfor the platform coming to rest. Additional rewards may be based uponthe duration of the rest and the location of the resting location. Thesystem may also provide a reward based upon the mobile platform simplybeing in motion (reference designator 1). Likewise, the system similarlymonitors the mobile platform moving to the intersection of Main and Oak(reference designator 3), stopping at the intersection of Main and Oak(reference designator 4), moving to the intersection of Main and Grand(reference designator 5), stopping at the intersection of Main and Grand(reference designator 6), and provide rewards accordingly as describedabove.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of the mobile location systemserver. For convenience, all the components associated with server 128are shown embedded as a single schematic block, but it should beunderstood that these components are not necessarily embedded in asingle hardware unit, or in communication with each other.Alternatively, the software applications may be cooperating componentsof an overall software system. As shown, the server 128 comprises afirst interface on line 300, connected to antenna 302 throughcommunications device 310, to receive the verification information fromthe platform communication subsystem. Although depicted as a wirelesscommunications system, it should be understood that the linkagerepresented by communication device may represent Internet and Ethernetlinkages to cell tower base stations and cloud search engines, or anyother means of communication, and may generally be referred to asportal. A second interface on line 304, also referred to as a customerportal, receives first client goals such target market, deploymenthours, deployment rate, and midair positions to name a few examples.Otherwise, a client satisfaction software application 306, embedded inmemory 126, includes processor instructions for determining theabove-mentioned client goals. For example, the client satisfactionsoftware application 306 may determine positions meeting the firstclient goals in response to factors such as location, localdemographics, traffic, population density, length of deployment, andcombinations thereof. An operating system 308 works in cooperation withthe processor 134 to enable software applications in memory 126 and toprocess information to and from communications device 310.

In one example, platform 102 (see FIG. 1A) comprises a selectivelyenabled media projection subsystem 108 (see FIG. 1A) and the server 128is associated with a second entity. Then, a server client provides areward to the first and/or second entity when the media projectionsubsystem is enabled, but provides no reward to the first and/or secondentity when the media projection subsystem is not enabled. Similarly,rewards to the first or second entities may be based upon the volume oftraffic through the WiFi hotspot, or the location of stationary parkingspot.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a mobile access point (AP)system. The system 400 comprises a location subsystem 104, configuredfor attachment to a mobile platform 102, to determine a stationarygeographic location of the platform, which is supplied on line 106. Acommunications subsystem 114, configured for attachment to the platform102, has an interface on line 106 to receive verification informationincluding the geographic location, and an interface to transmit theverification information to a server via antenna 116. A WLAN IEEE 802.11WiFi hotspot 120 is configured for attachment to the platform 102. TheWiFi hotspot 120 accepts Uniform Resource Locator (URL) address requestsfrom a user device 400 (e.g., a smartphone) via antenna 122, andtransmits the URL address requests, via the communications subsystem114, to a Domain Name System (DNS) service 402 embedded with server 128.The DNS service 402 makes address searches, if necessary, via theInternet interface on line 404.

Optionally, the platform 102 may comprise a media projection subsystem108 shown in phantom, as explained above. In this case, the server 128may further comprise a media searcher application 406, stored in anon-transitory memory 126 and enabled as a sequence of processorinstructions for accessing media associated with URL addresses, andtransmitting the media to the platform communication subsystem 114. Thecommunications subsystem 114 receives the media uploads from the server128 and supplies the media uploads to the media projection subsystem 108for presentation. In one aspect, the media projection subsystem 108 isselectively enabled. The media projection subsystem enablement may betriggered locally before the platform 102 is parked, or remotely afterthe platform arrives at the desired stationary position, for example,via instructions sent from the server 128, or using an independentremote control device (not shown).

Alternatively, if there is no media projection subsystem 108, or if themedia projection subsystem is not enabled, the communications subsystem114 may receive the above-described media uploads from the server 128,and provide the media uploads to the WiFi hotspot 120, which in turnsupplies the media uploads to the user device 400.

In another variation, as described in the explanation of FIG. 1A, thesystem 400 further comprises a targeting software application (124, seeFIG. 1A) that permits the selection of the stationary position from aplurality of potential stationary positions. Each potential stationaryposition may have a corresponding weighted value, and an entityassociated with the platform 102 may receive a reward corresponding tothe value of the selected stationary position.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of a gig parking system. The system500 comprises a mobile platform 102 with a secure access mechanism 502configured for attachment to the platform. The secure access mechanism502 permits a trusted parking agent 504 to gain control over theplatform 102, as explained below. A location subsystem 104, may beconfigured for attachment to the platform 102, to determine thegeographic location of the platform. A communications subsystem 114, maybe configured for attachment to the platform 102, with an interface toreceive verification information on line 106 including an identificationcode associated with the parking agent, an identification codeassociated with the platform, and the geographic location. Thecommunications subsystem has an interface to transmit the verificationinformation via antenna 116. In some aspect, verification information isrecorded in local memory 118 in addition to, or instead of usingreal-time communications. A parking mechanism 506 supplies a destinationparking location to the parking agent. Simple examples of a parkingmechanism include a verbal telephone conversation, text message, oremail, where the parking agent receives parking destinationinstructions. Alternatively as shown, the parking mechanism is asoftware application 506 stored in a non-transitory memory 118, enablinga sequence of processor executable instructions for supplying adestination parking location. In one aspect, the parking agent 504 isdirected to one particular destination parking location. However, itshould be understood that based upon local conditions and traffic, theparking agent may be required to park in a different, but close-by,location. In this case the parking application 506 may be able to supplyalternative locations, or limits to how far the actual destination mayvary from the assigned destination. In one aspect, the parking agent 504is able to choose from a list of mobile platforms with correspondingdestination parking locations, starting parking locations, and timingrestraints, and the parking application 506 accepts the parking agent'sselection. For example, the purpose of moving the mobile platform may beto operate a media projection subsystem, where some locations are moredesirable than others. As explained below, it should be understood thatthe parking agent may be able to choose from a plurality of mobileplatforms that may have common or different parking locationrequirements. The parking application 506 may be embedded with a servermemory 126, or optionally as indicated in phantom, in platform memory118.

In the case of the mobile platform 102 being an automobile vehicle, thesecure access mechanism 502 may be a traditional lock-and-key mechanism,keypad, or a wireless key fob. Otherwise, but not shown, the secureaccess mechanism 502 may be at least partially enabled as an accesssoftware application embedded in platform memory, enabled as a sequenceof processor executable steps for unlocking the platform and permittingthe platform to be started, moved, and locked upon reaching thedestination. For example, the secure access mechanism may include ahardware component keypad to accept an access code that is verified bythe software component of the secure access mechanism. Otherwise, aparking agent 504 may use a smartphone to request an access code from amaster access software application 508, embedded in server memory 126,comprising a sequence of processor executable steps for verifyingparking agents and matching parking agents to platforms. In anotheraspect, the master access application 506 may send a message to thesecure access mechanism 502, via communications subsystem 114, to unlockthe car and permit parking agent 504 control of the platform 102,following parking agent verification.

Similar to the targeting application described in FIG. 1A above, eachpotential destination parking location (and corresponding mobileplatform) in the parking application may have a corresponding weightedvalue. If the platform 102 is associated with an entity (as definedabove), then the entity may receive a reward corresponding to the valueof the selected destination parking location. Alternatively, or inaddition, the parking agent 504 may receive a reward corresponding tothe value of the selected destination parking location.

FIG. 6 is a diagram depicting an exemplary gig parking operation. Afirst entity leaves a mobile platform parked on Main Street. Theplatform 102 is shown parked along the West side of Main Street in thehours from 10 until 2 o'clock. At 2 o'clock a first parking agent movesthe platform to the South side of Broadway, where it is parked from 2until 6 o'clock. At 6 o'clock a second parking agent moves the platform102 to the East side of Main Street, where it is parked until 9 o'clock.At 9 o'clock the first entity retrieves their platform

Returning to FIG. 5, in one aspect the parking software application 506has a parking agent interface 510 supplying, in potential mobileplatforms with corresponding destination parking locations,corresponding starting parking locations, and timing constraints, toparking agents 504. One example of a timing restraint is the requirementto have the platform parked at a certain time, or before the expirationof a certain time. The parking agent interface 510 is shown as a simpleline in the figure. In one aspect, the parking interface line 510represents an Internet connection to the server-embedded parkingapplication 506 that is accessed via an Ethernet or a wirelessconnection. The wireless connection may be a cellular network, viaantenna 302, or a combination of WiFi and cellular communication links.In the case of the parking application 506 being embedded with theplatform memory 118, the parking agent 504 may communicate wirelesslyvia the communications subsystem 114, or via an optional WLAN or WPANsubsystem 512 and antenna 514. Since the WLAN/WPAN subsystem is optionalit is shown in phantom. The WLAN/WPAN subsystem 512 is most likely WiFior Bluetooth. In one aspect, a WiFi subsystem 512 would be a publicallyaccessible hotspot, with the features of DNS service and media searchingas described in FIG. 4 above. If the parking application 506 is embeddedin platform memory 118, the parking agent interface may connect directlyto the platform 102, or indirectly to the platform via the servercommunications links.

In one aspect, the parking agent 504 receives a reward responsive tofactors such as platform starting parking location, destination parkinglocation, distance between starting and destination parking locations,time restraint, travel time between starting and destination parkinglocations, time of day, day of the week, and combinations thereof.Likewise, an entity associated with the platform 102 may receive areward responsive to factors such as platform starting parking location,destination parking location, distance between starting and destinationparking locations, time restraint, travel time between starting anddestination parking locations, time of day, day of the week, andcombinations thereof. The entity is more likely to receive a reward ifthey act as the parking agent or if they permit their platform to beused (through a parking agent) by a service organization or clientassociated with the server 128. A client software application 516 may beembedded in server memory 126, accessible through client interface 518.For example, a server client may reward the entity for permitting theuse of their platform as a WiFi hotspot, or as a platform for a mediaprojection subsystem when parked at certain locations, at certain times.In this case, the server client, or an organization acting as anintermediary between the server client, entity, and parking agent, maydistribute rewards from the server client to the parking agent andentity. This is one case in which the server client or intermediaryorganization is willing to pay rewards for parking in any one of anumber of potential destination parking locations. These potentialdestinations may have weighted values with corresponding rewards.

Alternatively, the parking agent 504 may be performing preforming aservice for the platform-owning entity. In this case, the entity may paya reward responsive to factors such as platform starting parkinglocation, destination parking location, distance between starting anddestination parking locations, time restraint, travel time betweenstarting and destination parking locations, time of day, day of theweek, and combinations thereof. As above, an organization associatedwith the server 128 may act as an intermediary between the entity andparking agent 504. Although the entity may be associated with just asingle mobile platform, it should be understood that the server may beoperated by the entity and managing a fleet of mobile platforms.Likewise, a server client entity may manage a single platform or a fleetof mobile platforms.

For example, a first entity may drive their automotive vehicle mobileplatform to the airport and leave it in short-term parking. Since thefirst entity will be traveling for an extended period of time, theywould prefer that their vehicle be home for safety sake, and to save onparking fees. The first entity arranges for a first parking agent topick up the vehicle in short-term parking and drive it to the entity'shome. Two weeks later, prior to returning from the trip, the firstentity engages a second parking agent to drive the vehicle back toshort-term parking. Optionally, the second parking agent receives anextra reward based upon finding a choice location in short-term parkingor minimizing the time that the vehicle is parked. This is a case wherethe parking agent 504 must accept the single destination parkinglocation provided by the parking application 506. As another example, aparking agent can be used to deliver an automobile to and from a servicebusiness, such as vehicle maintenance or washing.

As noted above, a selectively enabled media projection subsystem 108 maybe configured for attachment to the platform 102, having an interface110 to project media. Since the media projection subsystem 108 isoptional, it is shown in phantom. In this case, an optional deploymentsubsystem 112 receives an enablement signal in response to the mediaprojection subsystem 108 being enabled, and the communications subsystem114 receives verification information including the enablement signalfrom the deployment subsystem, or directly from the media projectionsubsystem 108.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram depicting a gig parking agentenabled as an autonomous self-driving software application component. Inthis aspect, the parking agent autonomous driving software application504 is stored in platform memory 118, enabling a sequence of processorexecutable steps for driving an automotive vehicle mobile platform. Inthis case, the master access application 508 may send a message, viacommunication subsystem 114, to the secure access mechanism softwareapplication 502, allowing the autonomous self-driving parking agentdriving privileges, while the parking application 506 directs theautonomous self-driving parking agent 504 to a particular destinationparking location. It should also be understood that the secure accessmechanism and parking agent autonomous self-driving application may becomplimentary components in a single software routine.

As is well known in the art, a self-driving vehicle is equipped withenvironmental sensors, such as cameras, microphones, proximity andmotion sensors, and LIDAR. In one aspect, the parking agent 504 mayreceive wireless traffic updates and destination parking informationfrom a traffic-based external source (not shown) or from the server 128.The self-driving parking agent 504 may receive destination instructionsfrom the entity, or an intermediary organization acting on behalf of theentity, to go to a particular destination, e.g., for the personalconvenience of the entity. Alternatively, the entity may permit thevehicle to be “hired out” to a server client or intermediaryorganization, in which case the client or organization may select thedestination. As another alternative, the parking application 506 mayinclude a software algorithm that selects a destination, provided from alist of potential destinations, based upon a rationale such asefficiency or reward.

The systems described above can be adapted for use in a model where anadvertiser pays for service based upon performance. For example, anadvertising (server) client may contract with a system providerstipulating a target market and deployment hours/rate. The systemprovider (intermediary organization) determines geo-fenced locationsthat meet or exceed the advertiser's target market based on location,demographics, traffic, population density, and other variables. Platformdeployment time, location, quality code, and user information arerecorded by the server. A system provider algorithm determines platformperformance based on length of deployment, contracted rate, maintenancecost reimbursement, and location quality code.

The systems described above support a targeted location system, wherethe mobile sign or WiFi hotspot may be selectively deployed. Incooperation with the deployment of the sign or WiFi, an organization oruser associated with the sign or hotspot is directed to preferredlocations. For example, the deployment of the sign along a busy urbanthoroughfare is likely to have a greater value than deployment on asuburban side-street. Other factors that may be used to calculate targetvalue may include the time of day and the length of deployment. Thus,some key features to the system are determining that the sign and/orWiFi have actually been deployed, and once deployed, the location of thesystem. In some aspects, the sign is a type of visual display, but otheraspects may include just an auditory presentation, a combination visualand auditory presentation, or a presentation that is able to interactwith a proximate viewer.

In one aspect, the system communicates a deployment message andsupporting systems receive the deployment message and determine thedeployment location. This information can be relayed in real-time to aserver entity. Alternatively, the information can stored in memory ofthe supporting system and transferred to the server at periodicintervals or upon the attainment of predetermined metrics such as thenumber of deployments.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for mobile platformpositioning. Although the method is depicted as a sequence of numberedsteps for clarity, the numbering does not necessarily dictate the orderof the steps. It should be understood that some of these steps may beskipped, performed in parallel, or performed without the requirement ofmaintaining a strict order of sequence. The method steps are supportedby the above system descriptions and, generally, the method follows thenumeric order of the depicted steps. The method starts at Step 800.

Step 802 supplies an enablement signal with an identification code, inresponse to a mobile platform maintaining a selected stationaryposition. Step 804 verifies the geographic location of the platform.Step 806 communicates verification information including the enablementsignal, identification code, and geographic location to a server. In oneaspect, Step 805 a provides a publically accessible WLAN IEEE 802.11WiFihotspot attached to the platform. In Step 805 b the WiFi hotspot acceptsURL address requests from a user device proximately located to thegeographic location. Then, communicating verification information inStep 806 includes communicating the URL address requests to a DNSservice.

In another aspect, Step 801 selects the stationary position from aplurality of potential stationary positions having correspondingweighted values, and Step 808 may provide a reward to an entityassociated with the platform responsive to the value of the selectedstationary position.

Optionally, Step 805 c projects media from a media projection subsystemattached to the platform, with the media being a displayed image,broadcast sound, or a combination thereof. If Step 805 c selectivelyprojects media from the media projection subsystem, then Step 808 maysupply a reward to an entity associated with the platform when the mediaprojection subsystem is enabled. In one variation, in Step 810 the mediaprojection subsystem receives media uploads from the server forprojection.

In yet another variation, Step 805 d photographs images of a proximategeographic location to the platform, and communicating verificationinformation in Step 806 includes communicating the photographed imagesto the server. In addition to, or instead using a camera, Step 805 d mayuse proximity sensors record nearby activity data and supply it to thecommunications subsystem for transmission or recording. Optionally inStep 812 a facial recognition software application stored in anon-transitory memory of the server, enables a sequence of processorexecutable instructions for comparing the received camera images tofacial data, and cross-referencing recognized facial data to associatedpublically available social network data. In addition, in Step 814 thefacial recognition application selects media in response to the socialnetwork data, and transmits the media to the platform communicationssubsystem for projection by the media projection subsystem.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a mobile communication method. Themethod starts at Step 900. In Step 902 a location subsystem attached toa mobile platform determines the geographic location of the platform.Step 904 transmits verification information including the geographiclocation to a server. In Step 906 a WLAN IEEE 802.11 WiFi hotspotattached to the platform accepts URL address requests from a userdevice. Step 908 transmits the URL address requests to a DNS service. InStep 910 a media searcher application, stored in a non-transitory memoryof the server and enabled as a sequence of processor instructions,accesses media associated with URL addresses. Step 912 transmits themedia to a media projection subsystem attached to the vehicle forprojection. Alternatively, Step 914 transmits the media to the WiFihotspot for uploading to a connected user device.

In one aspect Step 903 uses a media projection subsystem attached to theplatform to project media from the platform. In another aspect, Step 901uses a targeting software application stored in a non-transitory memoryto enable a sequence of processor executable instructions permitting theselection the geographic location from a plurality of potentialgeographic locations that may have weighted values. Step 916 optionallysupplies a reward to an entity associated with the platform,corresponding to the value of the selected geographic location.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for gig parking. The methodstarts at Step 1000. Step 1002 provides a mobile platform. Step 1004permits a trusted parking agent to gain control over the platform. Asnoted above in the explanation of FIGS. 5-7, the parking agent can be ahuman being or an autonomous driving software application stored in anon-transitory memory enabling a sequence of processor executable stepsfor driving an automotive vehicle mobile platform. optionally, Step 1006may determine the geographic location of the platform. Note: Step 1006may be performed before Step 1004. Optionally, Step 1008 transmitsverification information to a server, including an identification codeassociated with the parking agent, an identification code associatedwith the platform, and the geographic location. Alternatively, Step 1008records the verification information in local memory. Step 1010 acceptsa destination parking location, and in Step 1012 the parking agentdelivers the platform to the accepted destination parking location. Inone aspect, Step 1009 supplies the parking agent with a plurality ofpotential mobile platforms with corresponding destination parkinglocations, starting parking locations, and timing constraints. Then,accepting the destination parking location in Step 1010 includesaccepting a mobile platform, with a corresponding destination parkinglocation, selected by the parking agent. In some aspect, the parkingagent can park a mobile platform in a number of destination parkinglocations. In greater detail, Step 1009 may supply a list of potentialplatforms with corresponding starting parking locations, destinationparking locations, and timing restraints. The accepted destinationparking location of Step 1010 may have a corresponding weighted value.

If Step 1002 provides a platform associated with a first entity, then inStep 1014 the first entity may receive a reward corresponding to thevalue of the destination parking location. Alternatively, or inaddition, Step 1016 may supply a reward to the parking agent,corresponding to the value of the destination parking location. Therewards of Steps 1014 and 1016 may also be responsive to factors such asplatform starting parking location, distance between starting anddestination parking locations, timing constraints, travel time betweenstarting and destination parking locations, time of day, day of theweek, and combinations thereof. As another alternative, in Step 1018,the entity may provide a reward to the parking agent or an organizationrepresenting the parking agent responsive to the above-mentionedfactors.

In one aspect, Step 1002 provides a mobile platform with a publicallyaccessible WiFi hotspot. Alternatively, or in addition, Step 1002provides a mobile platform with a selectively enabled media projectionsubsystem having an interface to project media. Then, Step 1020 maytransmit an enablement signal in response to the media projectionsubsystem being deployed. In some aspects an enablement signal istransmitted after the WiFi is enabled.

Systems and methods have been provided for arranging for, managing, andmonitoring parking locations, with the optional deployment of WiFihotspots and media projection systems. Examples of particular messagestructures, schematic block linkages, and hardware units have beenpresented to illustrate the invention. However, the invention is notlimited to merely these examples. Other variations and embodiments ofthe invention will occur to those skilled in the art.

We claim: 1-8. (canceled)
 9. An independent contractor transportationsystem comprising: a plurality of mobile platforms, each mobile platformcomprising: a secure access mechanism configured for attachment to themobile platform, permitting a trusted transportation agent to gaincontrol over the mobile platform; a location subsystem, configured forattachment to the mobile platform, to determine a geographic location ofthe mobile platform; a communications subsystem, configured forattachment to the mobile platform, having an interface to receiveverification information including an identification code associatedwith the transportation agent, an identification code associated withthe mobile platform, and the geographic location, and an interface totransmit the verification information; a transport mechanism supplyingthe transportation agent with a plurality of mobile platform selections;and, wherein the transportation agent delivers a mobile platformselected by the transportation agent to a corresponding destinationparking location.
 10. The system of claim 9 wherein the transportmechanism provides the transportation agent with a plurality ofpotential destination parking locations and accepts the destinationparking location selected by the transportation agent.
 11. The system ofclaim 9 wherein the accepted destination parking location has acorresponding weighted value.
 12. The system of claim 11 wherein themobile platform is associated with a first entity; and, wherein anelement selected from the group consisting of the first entity, thetransportation agent, or both the first entity and transportation agentreceives a reward corresponding to the value of the accepted destinationparking location.
 13. The system of claim 11 wherein the transportparking mechanism supplies a list of potential mobile platforms withcorresponding starting parking locations, destination parking locations,and timing restraints.
 14. The system of claim 12 wherein the reward isresponsive to factors selected from the group consisting of mobileplatform starting parking location, mobile platform destinationlocation, distance between starting and destination parking locations,timing restraints, travel time between starting and destination parkinglocations, time of day, day of the week, and combinations thereof. 15.The system of claim 11 wherein the mobile platform is associated with acorresponding entity; and, wherein the entity provides a rewardresponsive to factors selected from the group consisting of mobileplatform starting parking location, mobile destination parking location,distance between starting and destination parking locations, timingrestraints, travel time between starting and destination parkinglocations, time of day, day of the week, and combinations thereof. 16.The system of claim 9 further comprising: a publically accessible accesspoint, configured for attachment to the mobile platform, selected fromthe group consisting of an IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network(WLAN) WiFi hotspot, an IEEE 802.15 Wireless Personal Area Network(WPAN) device, and combinations thereof.
 17. The system of claim 9further comprising: a media projection subsystem, configured forattachment to the mobile platform, having an interface to project media.18. The system of claim 9 wherein the transport mechanism agent is anelement selected from the group consisting of a user interface (UI) andan autonomous driving software application stored in a non-transitorymemory enabling a sequence of processor executable steps for driving anautomotive vehicle mobile platform.
 19. The system of claim 9 whereinthe transport mechanism is a software application stored in anon-transitory memory, enabling a sequence of processor executableinstructions supplying a destination parking location.
 20. Anindependent contractor transportation method comprising: supplying atrusted transportation agent with a plurality of potential mobileplatform selections; permitting the transportation agent to gain controlover a selected mobile platform; the transportation agent accepting adestination parking location for the selected mobile platform; and, thetransportation agent delivering the selected mobile platform to theaccepted destination parking location.
 21. The method of claim 20further comprising: determining a geographic location of the mobileplatform; and, transmitting verification information to a server,including an identification code associated with the transportationagent, an identification code associated with the mobile platform, andthe geographic location.
 22. The method of claim 20 wherein supplyingthe transportation agent with the plurality of potential mobile platformselections includes supplying the mobile platform selections withcorresponding destination parking locations, starting parking locations,and timing restraints; and, wherein accepting the destination parkinglocation includes accepting a mobile platform destination parkinglocation selected by the transportation agent.
 23. The method of claim22 wherein the accepted destination parking location has a correspondingweighted value.
 24. The method of claim 23 wherein supplying theplurality of mobile platform selections includes providing a mobileplatform associated with a first entity; and, the method furthercomprising: an element selected from the group consisting of the firstentity and the transportation agent receiving a reward corresponding tothe value of the destination parking location.
 25. The method of claim20 wherein each mobile platform is associated with a correspondingentity; and, the method further comprising: the entity providing areward responsive to factors selected from the group consisting ofplatform starting parking location, destination parking location,distance between starting and destination parking locations, timingrestraints, travel time between starting and destination parkinglocations, time of day, day of the week, and combinations thereof. 26.The method of claim 20 wherein supplying the plurality of mobileplatform selections includes providing a mobile platform with apublically accessible access point, selected from the group consistingof an IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) WiFi hotspot, anIEEE 802.11 Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) device, andcombinations thereof.
 27. The method of claim 20 wherein supplying theplurality of mobile platform selections includes providing a mobileplatform with a selectively enabled media projection subsystem having aninterface to project media.
 28. The method of claim 20 whereinpermitting the transportation agent to gain control over the selectedmobile platform includes gaining control using an element selected fromthe group consisting of a user interface (UI) human being and anautonomous driving software application stored in a non-transitorymemory enabling a sequence of processor executable steps for driving anautomotive vehicle mobile platform.
 29. A mobile communications systemcomprising: a motion detection subsystem, configured for attachment to amobile platform, to determine when the mobile platform is stationary; amedia projection subsystem, configured for attachment to the mobileplatform, having an interface to project media; a deployment subsystem,configured for attachment to the mobile platform, having an interface tosupply an enablement signal with an identification code, in response tothe mobile platform being stationary; a communications subsystem,configured for attachment to the mobile platform, having an interface toreceive verification information including the enablement signal andidentification code, and an interface to transmit the verificationinformation; and, a reward subsystem providing a first reward to anentity associated with the mobile platform when the mobile platform isin motion and a second reward when the mobile platform is stationary.30. The system of claim 29 further comprising: a location subsystem,configured for attachment to the mobile platform, to determine ageographic location of the mobile platform; and, wherein thecommunications subsystem transmits verification information includingthe geographic location.
 31. The system of claim 29 further comprising:a camera, configured for attachment to the platform, having an output tosupply images of a proximate geographic location to the platform; and,wherein the communications subsystem transmits the images to a server.32. The system of claim 29 wherein the media projection subsystem is aselectively enabled media projection subsystem; and, wherein thedeployment system supplies an enablement signal in response to the mediaprojection subsystem being enabled.
 33. The system of claim 29 whereinthe media projection subsystem projects media selected from the groupconsisting of a displayed image, broadcast sound, or a combinationthereof.
 34. The system of claim 29 further comprising: a publicallyaccessible access point, configured for attachment to the mobileplatform, selected from the group consisting of an IEEE 802.11 WirelessLocal Area Network (WLAN) WiFi hotspot, an IEEE 802.15 Wireless PersonalArea Network (WPAN) device, and combinations thereof.